What’s new in bookstores this week

by Gabrielle Zevin (Algonquin Books, $24.95) — The author has written seven novels for adults and young adults. Her eighth — a No. 1 Indie Next List pick for April — is her homage to books and the people who sell and read them. It’s about the eccentric A.J. Fikry, owner of Island Books, a struggling independent bookstore in New England. He’s a widower who is cranky, drinks too much and is a snob, and his life is about to change dramatically. The audiobook (HighBridge Company, $29.95) is read by veteran narrator Scott Brick.

Explore where you live.

by Shane Kuhn (Simon & Schuster, $25) — This marks the debut novel for Kuhn, who has extensive experience in the entertainment business and advertising. It’s a wild premise: professional assassins working undercover as lowly interns (placed in key positions by Human Resources Inc., of course). Our “hero” is John Lago, HR Inc.’s most successful operative, who’s passing on the tricks of this bloody trade to the new kids through an instruction manual that’s “part memoir, part DIY” and all dark humor.

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In My Skin: My Life On and Off the Basketball Court

by Brittney Griner with Sue Hovey (It Books, $25.99) — The former Baylor Bears superstar has proved she’s more than just a pretty dunk. The 6-foot-8 Griner led the Bears to a national title, was a three-time All-American (scoring 3,283 career points and blocking 748 shots) and was the No. 1 pick by the WNBA’s Phoenix Mercury in 2013. She isn’t afraid to speak her mind on a variety of subjects. In this memoir, she addresses her sexuality, her relationships with her father and Baylor coach Kim Mulkey, and much more.

— Celeste Williams

MEET THE AUTHOR

Nancy Turner will discuss and sign her new book, My Name Is Resolute, at 6 p.m. Thursday at Half Price Books, 770 Road to Six Flags E., Arlington; 817-274-5251.

Read Next

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